Big Red is an icon of West Michigan, but it isn’t always so easy to reach.

Thursday, a Holland Museum fundraiser will give participants a chance to be able to do more than reach out to Big Red. They will go inside for an exclusive tour of the lighthouse.

“The Big Red program is a unique opportunity for those passionate about Holland and its history to tour the Big Red lighthouse, which is not typically open to the public,” says Chris Shires, executive director of The Holland Museum. “Events like (the Big Red tour) are vital for the longevity of events and programs that take place regularly at the museum.”

With the development of private land around Big Red last year, access to the landmark tightened. Although out-of-state visitors are allowed to walk across the private property to Big Red, 11 a.m. to sunset Monday through Friday all summer, locals are still restricted to Tuesdays and Thursdays.

The event includes a cruise into Lake Michigan, exclusive tour of the lighthouse with opportunities for photography, a private dinner and sunset cruise.

The Holland Princess will embark from Dunton Park on Thursday afternoon and take passengers on a cruise through Lake Macatawa, past Big Red and into Lake Michigan before returning to dock near The Piper restaurant.

Before a private dinner at the restaurant, ticket-holders will travel to Big Red lighthouse with a bus available for those who cannot walk the entire way, though some foot travel is required. Participants will learn about the history of Big Red on the lower level, climb all the way up into the lighthouse for photographs of its scenic view. Dinner will be at The Piper.

The Big Red Lighthouse was constructed in 1872 and, in 1907, the current lighthouse was erected. Its design reflects the Dutch influence in the Holland area and is now popularly referred to as “Big Red.” It was the 12th Michigan lighthouse to be made protected.

Travis Williams, executive director of the Outdoor Discovery Center, will be the keynote speaker.

A sunset cruise will take participants back to Dunton Park, concluding the evening.